In this episode of Her Way Climate, we speak with Professor Sommer, a clinical instructor at Harvard's Emmett Environmental Law and Policy Clinic. Professor Sommer shares her journey from litigator at the DOJ to Deputy General Counsel at the White House Council on Environmental Quality and now an educator. She discusses the similarities and differences between these roles, her passion for working with students, and the various impactful projects at the law clinic, including amicus briefs and comment letters. Sommer also delves into the influence of political polarization on environmental litigation, the importance of federal agencies like the EPA, and strategies for combating climate change through legal frameworks. Professor Sommer emphasizes the critical role of resilience and public engagement in environmental law and shares hopeful perspectives on the future of climate action.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:20 Career Journey and Roles
02:20 Teaching and Mentorship at Harvard
04:11 Impact of Amicus Briefs and Legal Work
07:06 Political Influence on Environmental Law
09:46 Future of Environmental Legislation
12:23 Role of Federal Employees and EPA
18:09 Challenges and Rewards in Environmental Law
23:05 Advice for Aspiring Lawyers
24:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts